Cool summer sandals for hot days and nights

By Alisa Welch
June 30, 2008

I used to be an avowed flip-flop fan. I enjoyed the fact that the only thing separating my feet from millions of my fellow New Yorkers was a thin layer of rubber sole, arch support be dammed! My love affair with flip-flops ended one very hot summer day in 2003 when a blackout in New York City forced me and the rest of the city to hoof it all the way home. By the time I made it home three hours later, my feet were black and blistered and I vowed that I would never be caught in the dark wearing flip-flops again.

The good news is there are plenty of options for hot weather sandals that are as fashionable as they are practical.  Gladiator sandals are everywhere this summer, but the best ones for walking offer sturdy soles and adjustable straps for a comfortable fit. Palladium’s Adventura sandal features a shapely footbed for arch support and contrasting leather for added downtown appeal.  Gladiators are found in all colors and metallic, but I love Enzo Angiolini’s Tell sandal in bright orange leather with adjustable straps and just the right amount of Grecian-inspired details.

For sandals to go from an air-conditioned office to a hot evening out, Tsubo’s Kuro open-toe sandal mixes strappy with serious for a chic alternative to black pumps. Engineered for comfort and style, Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole's Silverstone includes flax seed pillows embedded in the footbed, while the sweet t-strap design begs to be paired with Audrey Hepburn-inspired capris. 

High fashion and sporty comfort rarely make for desirable shoes, but these options turn a gritty concrete street into a delightful stroll in the park. Kenneth Cole Reaction's Wave Around platforms add spring to your step thanks to the specially shaped sole.  For a mix of preppy and athletic, check out Marc Jacobs' canvas wedge with bronze leather detailing and a cool front buckle. I also love Aerosoles' Amusement Park wedge in delicious green suede with a yellow flower detail on the heel. 

Maybe this season you'll kick your flip-flops to the curb and be kind to your feet too.

Enzo Angiolini - Tells Footwear

This Enzo Angiolini sandal 'Tells' all the juicy secrets. Leather upper. Adjustable straps throughout. Lightly padded insole. Flexible rubber sole.